Miller described this scene as an Indian performance. Archery was not only a basic survival skill, but a popular occasion for gambling. Onlookers watch intently to see who amongst the ranks of the young archers will get their arrow closest to the target.
An arrow maker is seated on the left, manufacturing the most perfect possible projectiles for the contestants. At this task, Miller wrote, “great care is taken in having the arrow well balanced, straight, and uniform throughout.” (Ross, 189)
This pursuit was also a chance for young men to dress in their finery. Both men in the foreground, one aiming at the distant target and the other bent over testing the pull of his bow, have stripped to their breechcloths, decorated their waists with feathers, and set it all off with buffalo tails out behind.
Only a couple dozen of the Walters works picture Stewart, Miller’s patron. Here is an example. He is seated on his horse in the middle ground, being instructed on the fine point of the sport by a fellow spectator. Perhaps he is being persuaded to place a wager.
Peter H. Hassrick
